Tito Mboweni, South Africa’s former finance minister and Reserve Bank governor, was laid to rest today in his hometown of Tzaneen, Limpopo. The late statesman was honored with a category 2 special official funeral at Nkowankowa Stadium, a fitting tribute for a man whose contributions spanned decades of public service.
Before the public ceremony, a private funeral service was held at the Roman Catholic Church in Haenertsburg, outside of Tzaneen. The solemn event gathered close family members, friends, and colleagues to remember the life of a man who shaped South Africa’s economy and played a key role in the country’s post-apartheid government. Mboweni passed away last weekend at the age of 65, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
**A Farewell Fit for a Leader**
The Nkowankowa Stadium, where the official funeral was held, was packed with mourners, including family, friends, government officials, and members of the public. The atmosphere was somber yet celebratory, with many paying tribute through struggle songs that resonated with Mboweni’s lifelong commitment to the country.
One of Mboweni’s close friends, Deneys Barry, delivered a heartfelt speech at the private ceremony, reflecting on his late friend’s unique personality. “I stand here with a heavy heart. The governor was a member of our club for some years until he was called to the cabinet. He had a great sense of humor and was often oblique in expressing his opinions. He was a terrific chap and contributed greatly to the transformation of our club. We will never forget him, and I must say he earned his status as a social butterfly,” Barry shared.
**A Leader Remembered**
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who worked closely with Mboweni over the years, delivered a poignant eulogy at the stadium. Ramaphosa spoke warmly about their shared passion for fishing, a pastime they both enjoyed. “Comrade Tito and I shared a deep passion for trout fly fishing. We would spend hours discussing the skill of casting a line and compare it to prudent macro-economic policy management. I used to fear that on Budget Day, we’d bring a dead trout to the National Assembly,” the president reminisced, evoking fond memories of their friendship.
Turning to Mboweni’s family, Ramaphosa acknowledged the deep pain they were experiencing but emphasized that the nation was grieving alongside them. “To the Mboweni family, you are all dealing with the raw heartache from his death, but we want you to know that we are all feeling the pain with you.”
Ramaphosa also reflected on Mboweni’s many contributions to South Africa, stating that his death left a void in the hearts of many. “Tito’s departure has left a void in our hearts. He understood the assignment. As we bid you farewell, my brother, my comrade, my fellow fly fisherman, your legacy is one of transformation. You were a freedom fighter, a businessman, a central banker, and a politician. You delivered on what was required of you,” said Ramaphosa.
**A Legacy of Service**
Tito Mboweni served as South Africa’s finance minister from October 2018 to August 2021, overseeing critical periods of the country’s economy. Prior to that, he made history as the country’s eighth governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), serving from 1999 to 2009. His journey with the Reserve Bank began in July 1998 when he was appointed as an adviser to the governor.
Mboweni’s career in public service began long before his roles in finance. He was a prominent figure in Nelson Mandela’s cabinet, serving as the minister of labour from May 1994 to July 1998. His dedication to economic policy was evident even during his time as the deputy head of the department of economic policy in the African National Congress (ANC).
Tito Mboweni leaves behind a lasting legacy as a leader who contributed to South Africa’s economic stability and transformation. His leadership and guidance will be remembered for years to come.